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Swan Quote by William Shakespeare

“Compare her face with some that I shall show, 85 And I will make thee think thy swan a crow.” quote by William Shakespeare
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““Compare her face with some that I shall show, 85 And I will make thee think thy swan a crow.””

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: Romeo and Juliet, Act 2, Scene 2, 1597

A character urges another to see a swan as a crow, highlighting how perspective can distort reality.

In simple terms: Seeing things differently can change their meaning.

Key Takeaway

Question your assumptions.

Themes

perception identity illusion

Mood

poetic contemplative

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • art criticism
  • personal relationships
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

metaphor subjectivity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the swan represent for you?
  • How can changing perspective alter conflict?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may be too obscure for some audiences.

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